Federer is seeking his fifth title in Hamburg, where he won his first tournament title in 2002 and broke into the top 10. The 17-time Grand Slam champion entered the event after his early elimination in Wimbledon.

Federer says Brands "can serve super" and vows not to underestimate the German.

Brands said he has "nothing to lose" and is going to "enjoy it." Like all seeded players, Federer had a bye into the second round.